Mayor Adams defends policies on safety, immigration, housing amid criticism

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has addressed the media on December 3, showcasing recent milestones, addressing immigration concerns, and defending his administration’s progress amid challenges.

Speaking at the newly unveiled LGBTQ+ museum wing, a project supported by a $10 million city allocation, Adams emphasized his administration’s commitment to inclusivity and praised former Mayor Bill de Blasio for initiating the project.

Adams highlighted New York’s decreasing crime rates, noting a citywide reduction of over 5% in November, including declines in homicides, robberies, and shootings. Transit crime also fell by 15.8%, marking the safest subway system in 14 years. “Public safety is the prerequisite to our prosperity,” Adams stated, crediting the NYPD and city agencies for their efforts.

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On immigration, Adams maintained his firm yet collaborative stance. While opposing mass deportations, he expressed willingness to work with the incoming Trump administration and its newly appointed border czar. “I believe in sitting down with those across the aisle,” Adams said, reiterating his focus on securing the border and addressing the challenges posed by undocumented immigrants committing crimes.

Responding to concerns about city cooperation with federal immigration authorities, Adams clarified: “Those who are here committing crimes… are the ones we need to address. But those working hard and contributing to our society should have a chance at the American dream.”

Adams also touted the city’s case management success in addressing the migrant crisis, noting a steady decline in asylum seekers under city care. However, he criticized the federal government for the $6.4 billion impact of the crisis on New York’s budget, arguing that the funds could have been better spent on education, social services, and public safety.

The mayor celebrated the anticipated passage of the “City of Yes” initiative, which aims to add 80,000 housing units to address affordability. “Compromise is not a loss,” Adams said, highlighting his administration’s record-breaking zoning achievements.

Finally, Adams expressed his gratitude to frontline workers and underscored the importance of expanding job opportunities for migrants and others who have contributed significantly during crises like the pandemic. “People who are giving back to this city should have an opportunity to participate in the American dream,” he affirmed.

The mayor concluded by assuring New Yorkers that his administration remains focused on delivering results across housing, public safety, and fairness for all residents.